In the aftermath of severe winter storms that wreaked havoc across Oregon, including Lane County, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP benefits) recipients find themselves facing the urgent need to claim replacement benefits. The January ice storm and the resulting power outages have left many households with spoiled food, prompting the Oregon Department of Human Services to extend support.
As is usual when inclement weather affects groceries purchased with food stamps, states receive additional resources to replenish the affected people with such food. Affected people must carry out a process during a set time window after each weather situation.
Get Your Food Stamps Replaced if They Were Affected by Winter Storms
In a recent press release, Oregon’s DHS remarked the importance of documenting the loss effectively. SNAP households must meticulously compile a list of the spoiled items, ensuring accuracy in recording both the type and quantity of food impacted. Alongside this, providing a clear estimation of the replacement cost is vital for a swift and efficient claims process.
Additionally, households seeking replacement benefits may be required to submit proof substantiating the event that led to the food loss. This documentation could include photographs, repair bills, or any other relevant evidence that establishes the link between the winter storms, power outages, and the subsequent spoilage of food items. Validating claims ensures that the benefits are directed towards those genuinely affected by the unforeseen circumstances.
How to Get Your SNAP Benefits Replaced in Oregon
SNAP recipients affected by the winter storms can initiate the replacement benefits request through three convenient channels: a toll-free call to (800) 699-9075, sending an email to [email protected], or visiting any of the Oregon Department of Human Services’ benefits offices. To streamline the process, applicants should be well-prepared to furnish details such as a comprehensive list of the lost food items, the associated replacement costs, and, if necessary, evidence validating the incident that led to the food loss.
Once the replacement benefit request is approved, the equivalent value of the spoiled food will be seamlessly added to the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card associated with the household. Consider that the replacement benefits will not exceed the household’s regular monthly benefit, ensuring a fair and equitable distribution of assistance.
Local Offices in Lane County: For Lane County residents seeking in-person assistance, several Oregon Department of Human Services’ benefits offices are available. These include:
- Lane Council of Governments – 1015 Willamette St, Eugene, OR 97401
- West Eugene Family Center – 2101 W 11th Ave, Eugene, OR 97402
- Eugene Self-Sufficiency – 2885 Chad Dr, McKenzie Center, Eugene, OR 97408
- Springfield Self-Sufficiency – 101 30th St, Springfield, OR 97478
- Cottage Grove Self-Sufficiency – 305 Coop Ct, Cottage Grove Family Center, Cottage Grove, OR 97424
- Florence Self-Sufficiency & Florence Senior and Disability Services – 3180 Highway 101, Florence, OR 97439